Fayette County Felon Illegally Possessed a Handgun and Ammunition

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Grindstone, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Quashawn Priester, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 6, 2017 Priester possessed a semi-automatic handgun and ammunition. Priester is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because of a previous felony drug conviction in the Northern District of West Virginia.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for January 7, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Priester remains on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to prosecution of Priester.